Bring some historic detail to your next woodworking project with authentic Viking-era chest hardware! Viking-era chests are cleverly built to require just a few nails and hinges to put them together. Using sources like archeological finds and reports, we’ll fashion reproduction chest hinges, hasps, and other bits for a proper chest. This all-levels class will aim to give blacksmithing newbies a solid start, and build the skills of those with more experience. Teaching will include a focus on body-friendly forging practices, efficient hammering techniques, and good coal fire management to make smiths of all sizes and experience levels more effective. Newer smiths will start with a pair of classic simple hinges before moving on to the mysteries of nail making. More experienced smiths might take on more involved hinge designs and add padlock hasps. We’ll have a look at historic chest designs, and talk about how to mount the hardware effectively. Re-enactors and SCA-ers welcome! Students should be able to swing a 1.5 pound+ hammer, have the stamina to work most of the day, and be safe and responsible.

Required Tools

• Only 100% natural-fiber clothing (including layers for chilly mornings)- check the thrift stores for anything you need, including wool sweaters/shirts!
• Legs should be covered to the tops of your shoes
• Closed-toe shoes, preferably leather (no crocs!)
• Notebook and writing tools

Optional Tools

• Eye and ear protection so comfy you’ll actually wear it! (the shop has some, but…)
• Nail header (for square nails) if you have one
• Forge welding gear: Low-IR glasses, borax, and a light rounded hammer
• Small chain tongs helpful, if you have them
• Any basic personal hand tools that you own and like
• Images of historic finds you hope to reproduce